Circular economy in the spotlight as business show returns for 2018

Circular economy in the spotlight as business show returns for 2018

Circular economy opportunities for organisations across the North-east will take centre stage as organisers of The Ultimate Business Show (TUBS) prepare for this year's exhibition.

With less than seven weeks to go, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce has announced the programme of seminars taking place during the free one-day event on April 18. Included in the programme will be a session looking at the circular economy concept and how steps to reduce waste can generate opportunities for new partnerships and businesses to emerge.

Other sessions will include a digital marketing overview from the University of Aberdeen Business School; a branding workshop with Mark Kemp, director of FortyTwoStudio; legal guidance on using social media to build a business from Nicola Gray, partner, and Kate Longmuir, solicitor, at Mackinnons; and a session on uncovering the science behind winning bids and tenders with David Gray, bid development director at AM Bid Services Ltd.

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TUBS brings together organisations of all sizes and sectors from across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. It aims to provide the platform for companies to source local products or services and help keep the North-east economy buoyant.

Now in its third year, TUBS2018 is expected to attract more than 80 exhibitors and an estimated 800 plus delegates, both members and non-members of the Chamber from across the region. It will kick-off with one of the Chamber’s high profile Business Breakfasts themed around the circular economy. Delegates will hear data on local material flows in and out of the region and highlight where any potential waste is occurring. The panel of speakers explore the concept and identify opportunities for business here in the North-east, with free follow-up consultations available to any business that is interested in finding out more.

Russell Borthwick, Chamber chief executive, said: “There is increasing reference to the circular economy but not necessarily a widespread or common understanding of what is means. In simple terms, it is about transitioning to a place where we no longer generate waste, rather what we currently call waste is reused, refurbished or designed out of the process altogether.

“The business operating environment continues to change at a phenomenal pace. Technology developments, changes in social perception and increased understanding of environmental, issues have all had their impact. Adopting circular economy principles offers the opportunity to be at the forefront of this move. It also provides the opportunity to save costs, reduce supply chain risks, identify new products and services and build customer loyalty in an evolving market place.

“We look forward to exploring these opportunities further during this year’s Ultimate Business Show which we anticipate will attract its largest number of exhibitors and attendees to date.”